Good morning, Kalispell.

Darrell William Rapien, 51, allegedly admitted to pulling a knife during a fight on Merganser Drive on June 12 and was arrested by police around 4:08 p.m.; he pleaded not guilty on June 19 and now faces charges of assault with a weapon and criminal possession of dangerous drugs—his omnibus hearing is set for July 16 with a pretrial conference on Aug. 6.

Author Colleen O’Brien recently released her novel (Baited), inspired by her years as a Glacier National Park ranger; the mystery follows park rangers as they investigate a missing coworker and a troubled grizzly bear study.

She will sign copies at the Kalispell Barnes & Noble (June 28 from 1 to 4 p.m.).

Kalispell Public Schools hosted the Doris Mountain Personalized Competency Based Education Summit at Flathead High School where students, teachers, and administrators discussed new learning strategies and essential skills for real-world challenges.

The summit will continue today as experts work to refine teaching methods for improved student outcomes.

The Woodland Park pool opened last Friday with reduced open swim hours due to a shortage of lifeguards—many candidates failed to complete required certification courses.

The Parks and Recreation department has boosted local recruitment and hired a new aquatics manager to help expand staffing soon.

Governor Greg Gianforte visited Kalispell Wednesday to sign 'Bobby's Law,' which creates a new felony offense for aggravated vehicular homicide for drivers under the influence.

The law strengthens penalties for fatal DUIs and honors Bobby Dewbre, who was fatally struck near Columbia Falls in March 2023 — a measure aimed at increasing accountability.

Gov. Gianforte finalized Montana’s two-year budget last week — it gives more money to tribal colleges by raising funds for nonbeneficiary students from $3,280 to $4,183 and sets aside $367,665 for a team to return Native American items.

The budget supports tribal education and helps improve repatriation efforts.

After nearly a year and a half of waiting, citizens in Bigfork welcomed the reopening of the Bridge Street Bridge — which had been shut in January 2024 for safety — at a ribbon cutting with remarks from Governor Greg Gianforte and DOT director Chris Dorrington; a parade with vintage cars, including a 1925 Model-T, followed to unveil a new pedestrian walkway that offers views of the Swan River and connects Highway 35 to downtown.

Glacier Park International Airport celebrated the opening of its new central atrium on Tuesday, June 24, which features tall glass walls, a meet and greet lobby, and a taxidermy black bear—marking a nearly threefold expansion from 75,000 to 200,000 square feet.

The airport will add more renovations including another gate and extra baggage claim space by May for further improvements.

Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — VIP package available — Experience today's pop hits reimagined in vintage styles that transport you through musical history.

Herron Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Trail Run

7-11 a.m. — Herron Park — Registration required — Experience scenic trails while supporting local trail building efforts in this annual community event.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Stillwater Christian School — Price info not provided — Enhance your basketball skills through high-intensity drills and fun competition.

Live Music with Zachary Christ

7-9 p.m. — Bias Brewing — No cover charge — Experience expressive vocals revitalizing 90's Alt Rock and modern Americana tunes.